LATHE STEADY REST, A UNIQUE IDEA, VIDEO AND MORE..

When I demonstrated the new Scrap Iron Lathe in the previous post I wanted to turn a vase out of the log that I turned round. To do that I needed a steady rest. I had planned to make one out of steel, but as yet I haven’t got the steel but have some leads now. Any way I didn’t want to wait and went ahead and constructed a wood one that I have found to be very successful. I chose a square design and that would provide a long side guide and support for the arms as you can see in the picture. I wanted the arms to lock in place easy and hold very securely. To do this I cut the guides and arms with tapered sides, 5 degrees plus, you may be able to see it in the following picture.

The carriage bolt the secures the wheels is recessed so if you have need to steady a large project it will slide beyond the center cutout. This gives me a capacity to turn a 10 inch diameter project. More than adequate.

When I set up the guides I glued and screwed one side in place then placed a thin cracker box cardboard under the arm and then slid the other guide against it, screwed and glued it. With the tapered pieces it takes very little pressure on the thumb nuts to lock it in place, it will NOT SLIP… Simular to a Morris taper.The wheels are amazing,just new salvaged, but no marks on the white birch I was using.. I have completed the vase I was going to make, turned out great. Just completing the finish now and will post it tomorrow with more ideas etc..The following is a link to a Utube video with addition information and other cool things. I hope I am getting better at talking, let me know what you think.

The body of the steady rest is 2 pieces of salvaged 5/8’ plywood with 1/4” in the center making a pocket for the heavy angle iron that is bolted to the lathe. Its been so successful on this project I may not even build a steel one. The thickneww and the square shape makes one sturdy steady rest.

Thanks for looking and comments appreciated, suggestionS keep me on the right track

It’s insanely simple, Brian. And, well worth adapting your ideas into the one I’ve been struggling with. i.e.: Who needs rings? I already have the banjo for mounting to my SS. All I need now is skate wheels and tapered arms. And the thing about maximizing the diameter by getting the wheels as far out a possible? What a concept. You’ve cleared it up for me. I’ve also been fussing of which size skate wheels; What type, How wide? It doesn’t really matter, does it? I’m sure glad I met you, Brian.